For us, apprentices are the future of our business and we like to think of them as our pipeline of specialists. Apprenticeships at Travis Perkins are open to all, from people with limited knowledge of our industries to those who already work at the Group and want to develop themselves further. Jang completed a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Furniture Design with Benchmarx and is now a Kitchen Designer.
Because we love to shine a spotlight on our wonderful apprentices who are learning, earning and working across the 38 programmes we offer at the Travis Perkins Group, we spoke to Jang to hear about his experience.
1. What first attracted you to the programme?
When I first heard about the apprentice programme at Benchmarx, I was super excited. I knew it would give me the opportunity to progress my career, develop my English and maths - which were my weaker areas – and build my knowledge of kitchens. I’ve always aspired to be the best I can be, and this apprenticeship has allowed me to achieve this.
2. How have you been supported throughout the programme and beyond?
I had an Apprenticeship Coach who was there to help me throughout my programme. They were supportive, positive, caring and helped me keep up my can-do attitude. On each workshop that I attended, the tutors that were there to assist us were just as excellent and friendly. Finally, my direct line manager gave me support when I needed it. They made sure I had the time to complete my tasks and assessments and helped me fit this around my work.
3. What’s your favourite thing about being on an apprenticeship programme with the TP Group?
This apprenticeship allowed me to meet new people and make new friends within the Group. I also really loved mastering the Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technology, which made my kitchen designs look realistic and brought them to life.
4. How has the programme set you up for success?
My product knowledge is now much better, and I am much quicker using the 20/20 CAD Technology. This course has given me a structure to organise myself better, and I now trust my ability to build relationships with retail and trade customers. Having the apprenticeship qualification on my CV has given me a massive boost in confidence, and I believe this has set me up for success.
5. What has been your proudest moment since working with the Travis Perkins Group?
After I completed my apprenticeship, I had the best Big Bang Sales in my four years at Benchmarx. My store smashed its sales target by over 50% and I finished 12th in the company. Without the apprenticeship, I don't think I would have achieved this success.
6. Do you have any advice for someone thinking of enrolling on an apprenticeship?
Enjoy every moment of the journey because there is plenty of knowledge to gain. Time management is the key to success. Lastly, if you believe in yourself, you’ll get the best results.
Apprenticeships with Travis Perkins
If you’re passionate about learning and are ready for a challenge then we want to hear from you. All of our many programmes are tailored to each of our distinct businesses. Half the programmes are delivered through our in-house specialists who are also on-hand to map out a full career path for colleagues once they graduate.
Find out what it's like to be a Kitchen Design Apprenticeship at Benchmarx, or explore our available apprenticeships to find out how our programmes will allow you to realise your full potential.
